(Triphenylphosphoranylidene)acetonitrile
(Triphenylphosphoranylidene)acetonitrile (CAS 16640-68-9), with the linear formula (C₆H₅)₃P=CHCN and a molecular weight of 301.32 g/mol, is a key Wittig reagent. It is utilised in organic synthesis for the efficient preparation of α,β-unsaturated nitriles. This compound serves as a valuable tool in chemical synthesis, particularly for C-C bond formation and olefination reactions. TSS offers this reagent with a guaranteed purity of 97%.
- IUPAC
- (Cyano)(triphenylphosphoranylidene)methane,(Cyanomethylene)triphenylphosphorane,Cyanomethyltriphenylphosphonium ylide,NSC 135204
- Synonyms
- (Cyano)(triphenylphosphoranylidene)methane(Cyanomethylene)triphenylphosphoraneCyanomethyltriphenylphosphonium ylideNSC 135204

Preparation of α,β-Unsaturated Nitriles
This compound acts as a Wittig reagent to convert carbonyl compounds into α,β-unsaturated nitriles. This transformation is crucial for synthesising complex organic molecules.
C-C Bond Formation
It facilitates the formation of new carbon-carbon bonds, a fundamental process in organic chemistry. This enables the construction of more complex molecular architectures.
Olefination Reactions
The reagent is employed in olefination reactions, specifically in the synthesis of unsaturated compounds. This is vital for creating molecules with specific stereochemistry and functional groups.
Synthetic Reagents
As a versatile synthetic reagent, it plays a significant role in multi-step syntheses across various chemical disciplines, including medicinal chemistry and materials science.
| Molecular weight | 301.32 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | (C6H5)3P=CHCN |
| Assay | 97% |
| Application | Wittig reagent for the preparation of α,β, unsaturated nitriles from carbonyl compounds.9 |
| Melting point | 189-195 °C(lit.) |

Hazard statements
- H315Causes skin irritation
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
- H335May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary statements
- P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas or vapours
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | dust mask type N95 (US), Eyeshields, Gloves |
|---|---|
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | Xi |
| Risk statements (R) | 36/37/38 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26-36 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is (Triphenylphosphoranylidene)acetonitrile used for?
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(Triphenylphosphoranylidene)acetonitrile is a Wittig reagent used in organic synthesis for the preparation of α,β-unsaturated nitriles from carbonyl compounds, facilitating C-C bond formation and olefination reactions.
What are the CAS number and formula for this compound?
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The CAS number for (Triphenylphosphoranylidene)acetonitrile is 16640-68-9, and its linear formula is (C₆H₅)₃P=CHCN.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies (Triphenylphosphoranylidene)acetonitrile with an assay of 97%. TSS does not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP grade.
How should (Triphenylphosphoranylidene)acetonitrile be handled safely?
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This compound is a warning irritant. Handle with appropriate personal protective equipment, including a dust mask (type N95 US recommended), eyeshields, and gloves. Ensure good ventilation and avoid breathing dust. Refer to the safety data sheet for full details.
Is (Triphenylphosphoranylidene)acetonitrile a controlled substance?
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The provided data does not indicate that (Triphenylphosphoranylidene)acetonitrile is a controlled substance.
How is (Triphenylphosphoranylidene)acetonitrile packed, shipped, and exported?
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As a global supplier, TSS ensures appropriate packaging for safe transit and export of (Triphenylphosphoranylidene)acetonitrile, complying with all relevant shipping regulations.
How can I request a sample or quote for (Triphenylphosphoranylidene)acetonitrile?
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To request a sample or a formal quote for (Triphenylphosphoranylidene)acetonitrile, please contact our sales team through the website or via direct enquiry.
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